Malaria Pills Singapore

Authored By: Dr. Leonard Leng.
Last updated: Jan 2, 2025.

Malaria pills are medications used for the prevention and treatment of malaria, a potentially life-threatening disease transmitted through the bite of an infected Anopheles mosquito. These pills are primarily recommended as a preventive measure for those travelling to regions where malaria is prevalent.

The need for malaria pills depends on several factors, including:

• Travel Location: The level of malaria transmission risk in your destination varies, especially in endemic regions such as countries in Africa, Asia, Central and South America, the Middle East, and certain Pacific Islands.
• Duration of Stay: Longer stays or travel involving outdoor activities increase the risk of exposure to mosquito bites.
• Health Condition: Your medical history and any pre-existing conditions may affect the type of medication recommended.

Consulting with a doctor before your trip is important to determine if malaria medication is necessary and to identify which type is best suited to your health needs.

Malaria pills work by inhibiting the growth of Plasmodium parasites, which are carried by mosquitoes and cause malaria in the body. These medications target the parasites at different stages of their lifecycle, either killing them or preventing them from multiplying.

Malaria pills should be taken before travel to ensure sufficient levels of medication are in the bloodstream, providing immediate protection upon arrival at the destination. The course is continued after returning to eliminate any remaining parasites that may still be in the incubation stage, preventing a delayed onset of the disease.

Several types of malaria pills are available, each with unique active ingredients, dosage schedules, and suitability based on individual health needs. Common options include:

• Atovaquone-Proguanil: A well-tolerated daily medication used for both prevention and treatment. It has fewer side effects, making it a popular choice for short-term travellers.
• Doxycycline: An antibiotic taken daily that effectively prevents malaria and is more affordable. However, it may increase sensitivity to sunlight.
• Mefloquine: Taken weekly, it is suitable for long-term travellers but may cause side effects such as dizziness and vivid dreams.
• Chloroquine: Less commonly used due to widespread resistance and only recommended for travel to areas with confirmed chloroquine-sensitive malaria.

Consulting with a doctor is recommended to assess your health needs and determine the most appropriate medication for you.

The dosage and duration of your malaria medication course depend on the specific type prescribed by your doctor: General guidelines include:

• Before Travel: Start taking the medication at least 1-2 days or up to a week before entering malaria-endemic areas.
• During Travel: Maintain the prescribed dosage consistently without missing a day to ensure continuous protection.
• After Travel: Continue taking the pills for 1-4 weeks post-travel to eliminate any remaining parasites.

Adhering to the recommended schedule is crucial to maintain the effectiveness of the medication and prevent the potential development of malaria.

While effective for preventing malaria, malaria pills can cause side effects that vary in severity. Common side effects include mild stomach discomfort, nausea, vomiting, dizziness, or light-headedness. Increased sensitivity to sunlight may also occur, requiring caution during prolonged exposure.

Less common but serious side effects may include anxiety, restlessness, depression, confusion, hallucinations, rashes, allergic reactions, significant mood changes, or severe stomach upset. It is crucial to seek prompt medical attention if severe side effects develop.

Disclaimer: This is not a comprehensive list of potential side effects. The information provided should not replace professional medical advice. Always consult a doctor if you have any concerns before receiving a vaccination.

At ATA Medical, we offer the following malaria pills with the prices as follows:

ATA Medical is conveniently located at:

• Tanjong Pagar Medical Clinic (Closest MRT: Tanjong Pagar EW15)
• Orchard Clinic (Closest MRT: Orchard Boulevard TE13)